For console players on the Xbox One, things are now calmer in Overwatch with 2.19. Trolls are quiet – is that it?
When it comes to combating trolls and disruptive players, Overwatch has had a major problem since its release. Toxicity has increased significantly after launch, and in almost every match, there’s one or another “expert” who is ranting or causing trouble.
The Patch 2.19 of Overwatch should have at least provided some relief on the Xbox One. Players have long had a “reputation” there – and if it falls below a certain threshold, they have to live with restrictions. This now also applies to Overwatch. Anyone who drops to “Avoid Me” due to being reported for unfriendly behavior too often can no longer use voice chat.
“Silenced” players end up in the same Overwatch pool
However – and this is controversial – players still end up in the same pool of teammates. The “silent” players are thus still grouped with the “unreported” players.
Some fans wish for separate penalty pools where toxic players can only play against and with each other. However, Blizzard rejects this and prefers to ensure in the long term that extremely disruptive players cannot participate in Overwatch at all.
Blizzard considers trolling and toxic behavior in Overwatch to be so negative that the entire development of the game is being slowed down to combat trolls and flamers.
What do you think about it? Can this only be a first step in the right direction? Or is this silence enough to at least have some peace from insults?
However, there is also good news: Some players have taken Kaplan’s call for kindness to heart!
